National AI ethics consultation welcomed by CSIRO

A national consultation about the ethics of artificial intelligence (AI) has been welcomed by CSIRO.

The discussion paper ‘Artificial Intelligence: Australia’s Ethics Framework’ has just been released, developed by CSIRO’s Data61. It is designed to encourage a conversation on how Australia develops and uses AI.

It also identifies key governance principles and measures that can be used to achieve the best possible results from AI, while keeping the wellbeing of Australians as the top priority.

Feedback received during the consultation period will inform the government’s approach to AI ethics in Australia.

CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Larry Marshall said as AI is increasingly used in our homes, workplaces and communities, we must ensure it transforms industries and creates new jobs in the right way for Australia.

“As Australia’s national science agency, a focus on ethics, social licence to operate and clear national benefit have always determined how we apply science and technology to solve Australia’s greatest challenges,” Marshall said.

“The draft framework contextualises these age-old ethical considerations in the light of new technology, so everyone can have a say in inventing the future we need so our children can keep pace with emerging technologies like AI.”

Adrian Turner, CEO at CSIRO’s Data61, said AI is already here and developing quickly.

“AI represents a powerful general-purpose technology that will help Australia solve some of our biggest problems relating to energy, health, ageing, safety, security, climate and the environment,” he said.

“However, we will only realise this potential if we address underlying science and technology challenges in AI itself as well as its implications for people.

“Because of the deep influence AI will have on us all, we need to ensure that these systems work for us and deliver benefits individually and collectively.

“The AI ethics framework identifies principles and tools for achieving this in practice.”

The discussion paper and details on how to provide feedback are available at: consult.industry.gov.au.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/the_lightwriter

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